Growth Optimization and Rearing of Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) as a Sustainable Food Source (original) (raw)

As a sustainable food source for humans, mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) have a great deal of potential, due to the fact that they have a very favorable nutritional profile and a low environmental impact. For meal production, feed formulation and optimization are important. The mealworm Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) is the most consumed insect in the world. Mealworms were given a variety of diets, including wheat bran as constant diet supplemented with different levels of Ospor (Bacillus clausii) at 0.002 g, 0.004 g, 0.006 g, and 0.008 g; imutec (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus) at 0.2 g. 0.4 g, 0.6 g, and 0.8 g; fungi (Calocybe indica) at 250 g, 500 g, and 750 g; yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) at 50 g, 100 g, and 150 g; and wheat bran (standard diet) were examined in complete randomized design (CRD). Different parameters, i.e., the larval, pupal, and adult weight, size, life span, and nutritional profile of mealworm were studied. When compared with other insect growth pr...